Handmade Hue

Colour evokes emotion. From an evolutionary and physiological standpoint, we know that colours can trigger instinctive responses, affect heart rate, hormone levels, and even impact physical strength. Colour is used by marketers to influence everything from our appetite to our buying decisions, and it has a massive impact in our environment, on the way we feel. In the context of card-making though, colour, to me, is simply about harmony and visual cohesion. By using color combinations that complement each other, whether analogous, complementary, or monochromatic, card designs become more appealing, and pleasing to the eye.

Crafty Colour Concepts

Because the cards I make are generally quite small, I tend to limit my palette to three colours, or different shades of the same colour, to avoid overwhelming the space. Using contrasting colours helps create a focal point, and bringing in dimension, texture and pattern helps elevate the design. You can use subtle shades to create a sophisticated and cohesive look, or go bold and vibrant to deliver something eye-catching. Colour helps communicate the style of the occasion, bringing a refined or subdued feel to condolence, wedding and anniversary cards, or a playful, fun energy to birthday, party and celebration cards.

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More Ideas ...

In the context of a card-making blog, any attempt to define colour in it's boundless depths and myriad qualities, is simply going to fall short. Colour changes everything. Colour is alchemy. So just have fun with it. Create mock-ups and play with samples, paint things, move it all around and see what makes your heart sing. It might pay to be selective and disciplined, or it might not. Follow your own intuition and enjoy the creative process. Find more inspiring ways with colour for cards on Pinterest.

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